As of 2020, the UK government enforced a ban on single use plastic straws in a bid to protect our environment, specifically our aquatic nature. The sheer volume of plastic straws and bottles that found themselves washed up within our oceans was astronomical and this ban was a massive step in the right direction towards creating a greener future for us all.

First and foremost, it’s convenient. Straws provide a convenient way to sip your drink, which can be especially helpful when your beverage contains ice. As well as this, beverages such as fizzy pop, tea and coffee are known to cause teeth discoloration when consumed frequently. Using a straw can help minimise the contact between these drinks and the front teeth, which are most susceptible to staining.

For the best results in reducing potential teeth discoloration, it’s advisable to use a straw and position it beyond the front teeth while sipping. This way, you can enjoy your favourite drinks without worrying about their impact on the appearance of your teeth.

Using a paper straw can be a much more sanitary choice, especially when consuming canned beverages. Aluminium can lids can potentially harbour harmful bacteria, which can contaminate the can during various stages of storage, transportation or handling at stores. Similarly, when dining at restaurants, using a straw can prevent direct mouth contact with glasses, reducing the risk of exposure to bacteria that may be present if glasses are not washed or handled properly. It’s a practical measure to enhance hygiene when consuming beverages.